Catchments

Definition of a Catchment: - A structure in which water is collected

• Confluence: - The meeting/merging of two or more bodies of water
• Tributary: - A stream that flows to a larger stream, or body of water

Key Elements:

• Its boundaries are marked by ridges of higher lands which is known as a Watershed.
• Drainage Density: -
  • The total length of all the streams in the drainage basin

The total area of the drainage basin

• The density is higher on impermeable rocks and clay.
• The density is lowest on permeable rocks and sand.
• Higher density - more risk of flooding.

Catchment area: Also called a drainage basin, an area drained by a river and all its tributaries

• part of the water cycle, but is an open system (water can be gained and lost)

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